A series of protests have swept across Jammu and Kashmir over the past week, highlighting deep-seated discontent among healthcare workers and students regarding long-standing demands. The most prominent of these demonstrations involved MBBS and BDS interns whose strike significantly disrupted hospital services throughout the Union Territory, bringing to the fore concerns over inadequate stipends and challenging working conditions.
MBBS and BDS interns from government medical colleges across Jammu and Kashmir initiated a strike to press for an increase in their monthly stipend. Currently receiving Rs 12,300, the interns are demanding an enhancement to Rs 30,000. They argue that this stipend has remained stagnant for approximately seven years, failing to keep pace with the escalating cost of living and the growing responsibilities they undertake during their crucial clinical training periods. Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that the interns’ plea is rooted in the disparity between their current earnings and the financial demands of their profession and daily life.
The standoff concluded on Tuesday following assurances from the government that the interns’ demand for a stipend increase would be addressed within a 30-day timeframe. Subsequently, the interns called off their strike and returned to their duties. However, the protest was not without its contentious moments, as several hospitals issued notices to the participating interns, requiring them to provide explanations for their absence from work and why disciplinary action should not be pursued against them.
The wave of discontent was not confined to medical colleges. Veterinary interns at the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) in Shuhama also continued their agitation, citing an insufficient internship stipend. These veterinary interns are seeking an increment in their monthly stipend from Rs 6,000 to Rs 23,000. They contend that the allowance they receive is considerably lower than that provided to their counterparts at numerous veterinary institutions across the country, indicating a regional disparity in compensation for similar roles.
Concurrently, the administration faced another significant challenge with employees working under the National Health Mission (NHM) launching a 72-hour strike commencing on September 9. This protest was aimed at compelling the resolution of several long-pending service-related issues that have been affecting NHM personnel. While government officials have stated that most of these demands are already under consideration, the striking employees are pressing for concrete, time-bound actions rather than mere assurances.
Mohammad Momin Khan, president of the Jammu and Kashmir unit of the All India Medical Students’ Association, emphasized the legitimacy of the medical interns’ concerns, stating that they warrant immediate attention. Khan was quoted as saying, “The need of the hour is to address their issues in a meaningful manner.” This sentiment underscores the urgency felt by the intern community regarding their professional and financial well-being.
Similarly, Abdul Rauoof, chief spokesperson of the Jammu and Kashmir National Health Mission Employees Association (JKNHMEA), explained that the strike was initiated to draw the authorities’ attention to the unresolved issues impacting NHM personnel. Rauoof highlighted the critical role played by NHM employees in strengthening the healthcare system across Jammu and Kashmir. He noted that these employees have been instrumental in providing services in hospitals, health centers, and various public health programs throughout the region, making their grievances particularly significant for the overall health infrastructure.
The protests observed this week collectively reflect a broader sentiment within segments of the healthcare workforce, indicating that their concerns require prompt and decisive action. Although the government has engaged in dialogue with some of the agitating groups, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the assurances provided will translate into tangible decisions capable of restoring confidence and addressing the underlying issues faced by healthcare workers and trainees in Jammu and Kashmir.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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